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Figures here are for general information. Wages, amounts and dates can change or differ from the official values. Always confirm them with the official state or federal agency before you rely on them.
Washington State sets a minimum salary for workers who are exempt from overtime pay. The amount rises on January 1, 2027, along with the state minimum wage. This page covers the new amounts published by the Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I).
The new minimum wage
L&I says Washington’s minimum wage rises to $17.73 an hour on January 1, 2027. The overtime salary threshold is a multiple of that wage. See the L&I announcement.
New overtime salary thresholds for 2027
| Employer size | Multiple of minimum wage | Weekly minimum | Yearly minimum |
|---|---|---|---|
| 51 or more employees | 2.5 times | $1,773.00 | $92,196.00 |
| 50 or fewer employees | 2.25 times | $1,595.70 | $82,976.40 |
L&I says an employee must earn at least these amounts to be exempt from overtime. The state also publishes a 2027 salary threshold schedule.
What this means for you
- A salary at or above the threshold is one part of the test. The job duties must also qualify for the exemption.
- A worker paid below the threshold generally cannot be treated as exempt, even with a manager title.
- Employers with 50 or fewer employees use the lower amount. Larger employers use the higher amount.
Check the L&I pages for the full rules and any exceptions. This page does not cover every type of exempt job.
Common questions
What is the 2027 overtime salary threshold in Washington?
It is $92,196.00 a year ($1,773.00 a week) for employers with 51 or more employees. It is $82,976.40 a year ($1,595.70 a week) for employers with 50 or fewer employees.
When does it start?
January 1, 2027.
Does this apply to other states?
No. These are Washington State amounts. Other states have their own rules. See our guide to minimum wage increases on January 1, 2027 for other states.
Why did we not cover 401(k) and IRA limits?
The IRS usually announces next year’s retirement plan limits in the fall. We did not find the 2027 announcement on irs.gov as of November 5, 2026, so we are not listing any 2027 numbers.
Sources
- Washington Department of Labor and Industries, news release on the 2027 minimum wage, 26-17
- Washington Department of Labor and Industries, 2027 salary threshold schedule